Introduction

Corrugated fibreboard is widely used in packaging due to its strength, durability, and lightweight properties. One of 

the critical parameters affecting its performance is thickness, which influences rigidity, stacking strength, and printing 

quality. ISO 3034:2011, titled "Corrugated fibreboard – Determination of single sheet thickness," provides a standardized 

method for measuring the thickness of corrugated board under specified conditions. This article discusses the scope, 

principle, apparatus, procedure, and significance of ISO 3034 in ensuring quality control in the packaging industry.

Scope of ISO 3034

ISO 3034 specifies a method for measuring the thickness of a single sheet of corrugated fibreboard under controlled 

pressure conditions. The standard applies to both single-wall and multi-wall corrugated boards. Accurate thickness 

measurement is essential for quality assurance, compliance with customer specifications, and optimizing material usage.

Principle of Measurement

The thickness of corrugated fibreboard is determined by applying a specified pressure (20 kPa ± 1 kPa) between two 

parallel measuring surfaces and recording the distance between them. The measurement must be conducted under 

controlled conditions to prevent compression errors due to excessive force.

Testing instrument：PTT-03 Thickness Tester

Apparatus Required

The standard outlines the following equipment for thickness measurement:

Thickness Gauge – A precision instrument with flat, parallel circular plates (minimum diameter of 35 mm).

Pressure Application System – Ensures a consistent pressure of 20 kPa (±1 kPa) is applied.

Sample Support – A flat, rigid surface to hold the test specimen without deformation.

Test Procedure

Sample Preparation – Cut at least ten representative specimens from different areas of the corrugated sheet, avoiding 

edges, creases, or damaged regions.

Conditioning – Store samples in a controlled environment (23°C ± 1°C and 50% ± 2% relative humidity) for at least 24 

hours before testing.

Measurement – Place the specimen between the gauge plates and apply the specified pressure (20 kPa) for a defined 

duration (typically 5 seconds). Record the thickness reading.

Repeat Measurements – Conduct multiple measurements across different points of the sample to ensure consistency.

Calculation – Report the average thickness and standard deviation for the tested samples.

Significance of ISO 3034 in the Packaging Industry

Quality Control – Ensures corrugated boards meet thickness specifications for structural integrity.

Process Optimization – Helps manufacturers adjust production parameters (e.g., flute height, linerboard thickness) to 

achieve desired performance.

Customer Compliance – Meets contractual and regulatory requirements for packaging materials.

Comparability – Standardized measurements allow for consistent comparisons between suppliers and batches.

Conclusion

ISO 3034 provides a reliable and repeatable method for determining the thickness of corrugated fibreboard, which is 

crucial for maintaining product quality and performance. By adhering to this standard, manufacturers and testing

 laboratories can ensure consistency, optimize material usage, and meet industry requirements. Proper thickness 

measurement contributes to the durability and functionality of corrugated packaging, reinforcing its role in logistics 

and product protection.

For accurate and reproducible results, it is essential to follow ISO 3034 guidelines strictly, including proper sample 

conditioning, calibrated equipment, and controlled testing conditions.